Imaging Apparatus, Method, and Program

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C § 119 (a) to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-116794 filed on 22 Jul. 2024. The above applications are hereby expressly incorporated by reference, in its entirety, into the present application.

The present disclosure relates to an imaging apparatus, a method, and a program.

According to JP4253086B (corresponding to US2007/0127913A1), there is provided a dummy-imaging mode in which, in a case where a PC card not being mounted is detected, image data is stored only in a buffer memory and the image data is not recorded in the PC card.

According to JP2003-78806A, in a case where a captured image count reaches a remaining capture count, imaging is disabled even in a case where a shutter release button is pushed to perform imaging.

According to JP5057135B, a write flag is read out from a built-in memory, and whether or not a processing image corresponding to a reproduction target is recorded in the built-in memory is determined based on the write flag.

An object of an exemplary embodiment of the invention is to provide an imaging apparatus, a method, and a non-transitory computer readable medium for storing a program that enable experience of an analog imaging operation in a state where a film is removed in a film camera.

An imaging apparatus according to an aspect of the exemplary embodiment comprises a processor, in which the processor is configured to acquire first information related to insertion and removal of a recording medium on which imaging data of the imaging apparatus is recorded, and restrict a first imaging mode related to a function of the imaging apparatus based on the first information.

It is preferable that, in a case where the first imaging mode is started, the processor is configured to perform a first control that is a control of any of executing the first imaging mode or restricting the first imaging mode, based on the first information. It is preferable that, in a case where the first imaging mode is executed, the processor is configured to output error information based on the first information. It is preferable that, after the error information is output, the processor is configured to perform a second control that is a control of any of continuing the first imaging mode or restricting the first imaging mode, based on the first information.

It is preferable that, in a case where the first imaging mode is executed, and the imaging apparatus is powered off and then, powered on again, the processor is configured to perform a third control that is a control of any of continuing the first imaging mode or restricting the first imaging mode, based on the first information.

It is preferable that, in a case where the first imaging mode is finished, the processor is configured to perform initialization related to the first imaging mode. It is preferable that the initialization is processing of not using a first set value set in first imaging in the first imaging mode as a second set value set in second imaging that is imaging in the subsequent first imaging mode. It is preferable that, in a case where the first imaging mode is finished, the processor is configured to execute a second imaging mode in which imaging different from imaging in the first imaging mode is performed.

It is preferable that the first imaging mode is an imaging mode in which a captured image count is restricted. It is preferable that the first imaging mode is an imaging mode in which image formats are restricted. It is preferable that the first imaging mode is an imaging mode in which the processor is configured to restrict output of a live view to a monitor portion. It is preferable that the first imaging mode is an imaging mode in which storage of a series of image data obtained by imaging in the first imaging mode in a format other than a single unit format is restricted. It is preferable that the first information is information including a state of the insertion and removal of the recording medium.

It is preferable that the processor is configured to, in a case where the first information indicates an insertion state of the recording medium, execute the first imaging mode, and in a case where the first information indicates a removal state of the recording medium, restrict the first imaging mode. It is preferable that the processor is configured to determine presence or absence of a first attribute assigned to the recording medium by executing the first imaging mode, and continue the first imaging mode in a case where the first attribute is present, and restrict the first imaging mode in a case where the first attribute is absent.

It is preferable that the processor is configured to determine presence or absence of a first attribute assigned to the recording medium by executing the first imaging mode, continue the first imaging mode in a case where the first attribute is present and an external change is not made to a second attribute assigned to data of the recording medium in association with a history record, and restrict the first imaging mode in a case where the first attribute is present and an external change is made to the second attribute assigned to the data of the recording medium in association with the history record.

It is preferable that the processor is configured to, in a case where the imaging apparatus is powered off and then, powered on again, determine presence or absence of a first attribute assigned to the recording medium by executing the first imaging mode, and continue the first imaging mode in a case where the first attribute is present, and restrict the first imaging mode in a case where the first attribute is absent.

It is preferable that the processor is configured to, in a case where the imaging apparatus is powered off and then, powered on again, determine presence or absence of a first attribute assigned to the recording medium by executing the first imaging mode, continue the first imaging mode in a case where the first attribute is present and an external change is not made to a second attribute assigned to data of the recording medium in association with a history record, and restrict the first imaging mode in a case where the first attribute is present and an external change is made to the second attribute assigned to the data of the recording medium in association with the history record.

An imaging apparatus according to another aspect of the exemplary embodiment comprises a processor, in which the processor is configured to, in a case where a recording medium is inserted, acquire second information related to an attribute of the recording medium, and restrict a first imaging mode related to a function of the imaging apparatus based on the second information.

It is preferable that the attribute includes any of a first attribute assigned to the recording medium by executing the first imaging mode or a second attribute assigned to data of the recording medium in association with a history record.

An imaging method according to still another aspect of the exemplary embodiment comprises, via a processor of an imaging apparatus, acquiring first information related to insertion and removal of a recording medium on which imaging data of the imaging apparatus is recorded, and restricting a first imaging mode related to a function of the imaging apparatus based on the first information.

A non-transitory computer readable medium according to still another aspect of the exemplary embodiment stores a program causing a processor of an imaging apparatus to execute a process comprising acquiring first information related to insertion and removal of a recording medium on which imaging data of the imaging apparatus is recorded, and restricting a first imaging mode related to a function of the imaging apparatus based on the first information.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the invention, an analog imaging operation in a state where a film is removed in a film camera can be experienced.

1 FIG. 10 11 12 11 10 As illustrated in, an imaging apparatuscomprises a camera bodyand a lens barrel. The camera bodyhas a horizontally elongated box shape of which a dimension in a left-to-right direction is larger than a dimension in an up-to-down direction in a front view. The imaging apparatusis preferably a digital camera or the like.

11 11 11 11 12 11 13 13 21 The camera bodyis provided with a gripA in its end part on a left side in the front view. The gripA has a semi-cylindrical shape connecting a front surface and a rear surface of the camera bodyand has a shape easily held by a user. The lens barrelis disposed on the front surface of the camera bodyand is provided with an imaging optical system. The imaging optical systemforms an image of subject light on an imaging elementprovided on an optical axis OA.

14 15 16 17 11 14 12 18 19 11 18 10 19 10 A mode dial, a release switch, a power switch, a lever, and the like are provided on an upper surface of the camera body. The mode dialis used for switching an exposure level and the like in a stepwise manner. Not only the lens barrelbut also a flash deviceand an illumination deviceare provided on the front surface of the camera body. The flash deviceirradiates a subject with illumination light in a case where an exposure value of the subject is less than a certain value, or in a forced manner in line with a shutter release in a case where the imaging apparatusis in a still image capturing mode. Meanwhile, the illumination deviceconstantly irradiates the subject with the illumination light in a case where the imaging apparatusis in a video capturing mode.

2 FIG. 17 11 17 14 15 17 14 17 As illustrated in, the leveris provided above the gripA. The leveris provided by stacking the mode dialand the release switch. The leveris attached to be rotatable about a central axis CL of the mode dial. The user can perform a rotation operation on the lever, and details of the rotation operation will be described later.

16 14 17 10 16 The power switchis a push-type switch and is disposed near the mode dialand the lever. A power on/off state of the imaging apparatusis alternately switched in response to pushing of the power switch.

11 21 21 12 21 21 11 21 11 3 FIG. The camera bodyincorporates the imaging element(see). The imaging elementis held by a holder (not illustrated) and is fixed to the lens barrelon an image plane side. The imaging elementhas a still image and video capturing function and is, for example, a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor, or an organic thin film imaging element. The imaging elementis an imaging element of which a length in a vertical direction is smaller than a length in a horizontal direction in a case where the imaging element is laterally placed, that is, the upper surface of the camera bodyfaces upward in the vertical direction. The imaging elementis not limited to this and may be an imaging element of which a length in the vertical direction is larger than a length in the horizontal direction in a case where the imaging element is laterally placed, that is, the upper surface of the camera bodyfaces upward in the vertical direction.

22 23 24 11 22 22 21 22 A display(a monitor portion), an electronic view finder, and a sub-displayare provided on the rear surface of the camera body. The displayis a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescent display (OELD), or the like and is composed of a touch screen on which the user can perform a touch operation. The displayis used for live view display, recorded image display, setting menu display, and the like. In the live view display, a recorded image obtained by imaging the subject via the imaging elementis displayed in real time on the display.

24 22 22 23 24 The sub-displaydisplays information related to quality of the image such as color and is composed of a touch screen on which the user can perform the touch operation, like the display. While the displaycorresponds to a monitor portion in the claims, the monitor portion may include the electronic view finderor the sub-display.

23 11 23 21 23 22 The electronic view finderis provided in an upper portion of the camera body. The electronic view finderdisplays a live view and displays the recorded image obtained by the imaging the subject via the imaging elementin real time. The electronic view findercan be turned on and off, as necessary, and is switched to the display on the display.

17 16 17 17 11 11 17 17 11 11 3 FIG. Hereinafter, the rotation operation of the leverwill be described. As illustrated in (A) of, in a case where the power switchis off, a locking mechanism (not illustrated) restricts rotation of the lever, and the leveris locked in a posture along the rear surface of the camera body. The posture along the rear surface of the camera bodymeans that the leveris at a position at which the leverdoes not protrude from the rear surface of the camera bodyin a state seen from above the camera body.

3 FIG. 3 FIG. 16 17 17 17 11 17 17 17 17 As illustrated in (B) of, in a case where the power switchis switched on from off, restriction of the rotation of the leveris released, and the leveris set to a normal position at which the leveris slightly rotated counterclockwise from the rear surface of the camera body. The leveris set to a state of the normal position unless the user operates the lever. As illustrated in (C) of, a winding operation of performing a rotation operation of the leverin a counterclockwise direction from the normal position can be performed on the lever. This rotation operation is used for unlocking a lock on the imaging operation in a film camera mode (unlocking of the lock on the imaging operation will be described later).

17 17 17 17 17 17 17 Specifically, in the winding operation of the lever, the user moves the leverin the counterclockwise direction by hooking a finger on the lever, and the leveris rotated. In a case where the finger hooked on the leveris released when the leveris rotated by a certain rotation angle, the leverbiased by a spring or the like automatically rotates clockwise and returns to the normal position. Accordingly, the winding operation is completed.

10 31 10 4 FIG. Hereinafter, an electric configuration of the imaging apparatuswill be described. As illustrated in, a controllerconsists of a microcomputer comprising a CPU, a read only memory (ROM) in which a program and a parameter used by the CPU are stored, a random access memory (RAM) used as a work memory of the CPU, and the like (none illustrated) and functions as a processor that controls each unit of the imaging apparatus.

17 31 14 15 16 31 In a case where the rotation operation is performed on the lever, a signal for detecting an amount of rotation is transmitted to the controller. A mode switching signal from the mode dial, a release signal from the release switch, and a power on/off signal from the power switchare input into the controller.

32 13 21 32 13 21 32 33 33 34 A shutter unitis, for example, a focal plane shutter and is disposed between the imaging optical systemand the imaging element. The shutter unitis provided to be capable of shielding an optical path between the imaging optical systemand the imaging elementand changes between an open state and a closed state. The shutter unitis driven by a shutter motor. Driving of the shutter motoris controlled by a motor driver.

32 32 15 15 32 The shutter unitchanges to the open state when live view images and videos are captured. In still image capturing, the shutter unitis changeable to the closed state from the open state in a case where the release switchis not operated, and is changeable to the open state from the closed state in a case where the release switchis operated. The shutter unitoperates in the same manner as in video capturing in capturing a preview image in the video capturing mode, and as in the still image capturing in capturing a preview image in the still image capturing mode.

21 31 21 13 Driving of the imaging elementis controlled by the controller. The imaging elementincludes a light-receiving surface composed of a plurality of pixels (not illustrated) arranged in a two-dimensional matrix. Each pixel includes a photoelectric conversion element and generates an imaging signal by photoelectrically converting a subject image formed on the light-receiving surface by the imaging optical system.

21 36 21 21 The imaging elementcomprises signal processing circuits such as a noise removal circuit, an auto gain controller, and an A/D conversion circuit (none illustrated). The noise removal circuit performs noise removal processing on the imaging signal. The auto gain controller amplifies a level of the imaging signal to an optimal value. The A/D conversion circuit converts the imaging signal into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to a bus linefrom the imaging element. The output signal of the imaging elementis image data (so-called RAW data) including one color signal for each pixel.

35 36 37 35 An image memorystores the image data of one frame output to the bus line. An image data processing portionreads out the image data of one frame from the image memoryand performs well-known image processing such as a matrix operation, demosaicing, Y correction, brightness and color difference conversion, and resizing processing.

38 37 22 23 22 22 22 A display driversequentially inputs the image data of one frame on which the image processing is performed by the image data processing portion, into the displayor the electronic view finder. For example, the displaysequentially displays the live view image in a certain period. The touch operation can be performed on the display. By performing the touch operation on an operation icon (not illustrated) or the like displayed on the display, an operation and selection corresponding to the operation icon are executed.

41 11 42 42 41 37 42 42 41 42 A card interface (I/F)is incorporated in a card slot (not illustrated) provided in the camera bodyand is electrically connected to a memory cardinserted into the card slot. The memory cardcan be inserted into and removed from the card slot by the user. Specifically, the card I/Fstores the image data on which the image processing is performed by the image data processing portion, in the memory card. In reproducing and displaying the image data stored in the memory card, the card I/Freads out the image data from the memory card. An image recording portion is not limited to a configuration of performing recording on a recording medium such as a memory card and may be a storage device such as a solid state drive (SSD).

10 22 24 5 FIG. 5 FIG. 5 FIG. The imaging apparatuscomprises a plurality of imaging modes such as a normal mode (a second imaging mode) and the film camera mode (a first imaging mode). The normal mode includes the still image capturing mode, the video capturing mode, and the like. The film camera mode is a mode in which image formats are restricted, and is a mode in which an analog feel of a film camera is experienced and reproduced. For switching to the film camera mode from the normal mode, as illustrated in, the displayis switched to a screen of the film camera mode illustrated in (B) offrom a screen of the normal mode illustrated in (A) ofby performing the touch operation on the sub-display. For switching to the normal mode from the film camera mode, switching to the normal mode from the film camera mode is performed in a case where, for example, a selection is made to finish the film camera mode, or a captured image count reaches a predetermined number in the film camera mode.

31 22 22 22 50 51 22 22 22 6 FIG. In a case where the film camera mode is selected, the controlleroutputs user interface information related to the imaging to the display, and output of the live view to the displayis restricted. Specifically, as illustrated in, a display region of the displaydisplays a touch operation disabled regionin which the user cannot perform the touch operation, such as the captured image count as the user interface information related to the imaging, and a touch operation enabled regionin which the user can perform the touch operation, such as manual focus. Restriction of the output of the live view to the displayincludes not displaying the live view image on the displayduring the film camera mode, unlike in the normal mode. In the film camera mode, it is preferable to restrict and not display videos among the image formats on the display.

24 24 Here, “PROVIA” displayed on the sub-displayis one type of film simulation that is function enabling color development and contrast to be changed as in the case of switching a film of a camera in accordance with what is intended to be imaged. Switching to a type of film simulation (for example, “VELVIA”) other than “PROVIA” can be performed by performing the touch operation on the sub-display.

50 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 53 54 55 56 The touch operation disabled regiondisplays a remaining battery capacity display portion, an F number display portion, a captured image count display portion, a remaining capture count display portion, a lever state display portion, a flash presence or absence display portion, and a date display portion. The remaining battery capacity display portiondisplays a remaining battery capacity with vertical lines in a shape representing a battery. More vertical lines mean more remaining battery capacity. The F number display portiondisplays an F number as a numerical value. The captured image count display portiondisplays the current captured image count. The remaining capture count display portiondisplays a remaining capture count that is a predetermined captured image count at the start of the film camera mode. For example, the remaining capture count is preferably set to 72, 36, or 24 in accordance with the remaining capture count of the camera film.

57 17 57 58 18 18 59 The lever state display portiondisplays whether or not the winding operation of the leveris performed in the film camera mode. Details of the lever state display portionwill be described later. The flash presence or absence display portiondisplays ON in a case where the flash deviceis turned ON, and displays OFF in a case where the flash deviceis turned off. The date display portiondisplays the current date, and the date being displayed is displayed in a superimposed manner on the image in the film camera mode.

51 60 61 62 60 60 60 60 62 a a a The touch operation enabled regiondisplays an AF/MF switching portion, a date ON/OFF switching portion, and an MF focal length operator. In the AF/MF switching portion, a round button portioncan be slid in the left-to-right direction. In a case where the round button portionis slid to the left side, switching to auto focus (AF) is performed. In a case where the round button portionis slid to a right side, switching to the manual focus (MF) is performed. The MF focal length operatorcan be operated by switching to the MF.

61 61 61 61 59 61 a a a a In the date ON/OFF switching portion, a push operation can be performed on a round button portion, and switching between date ON and date OFF can be performed by performing the push operation on the round button portion. In the case of date ON, a center portion of the round button portionis illuminated, and the date being displayed in the date display portionis displayed in a superimposed manner for each imaging. Meanwhile, in the case of date OFF, the center portion of the round button portionis not illuminated. In this case, the date is not displayed in a superimposed manner even in a case where the imaging is performed.

62 62 62 62 62 a a a The MF focal length operatorincludes a slider, and a focal length is set by performing a sliding operation of the sliderin the left-to-right direction. In the MF focal length operator, the focal length can be set to “0.3 m”, “1 m”, “3 m”, or “5 m”. In the case of “0.3 m”, a logo representing an example of focusing on near a face of one person is displayed. In the case of “1 m”, a logo representing an example of focusing on an upper body of one person is displayed. In the case of “3 m”, a logo representing an example of focusing on upper bodies of two persons is displayed. In the case of “5 m”, a logo representing an example of focusing on a landscape is displayed. By setting the sliderto each position of “0.3 m”, “1 m”, “3 m”, and “5 m”, the corresponding focal length can be set.

31 15 17 31 15 15 31 31 22 The controllersets a lock on the imaging operation of the release switch(a first member) in the film camera mode and unlocks the lock based on an operation of the lever(a second member). Meanwhile, in a case where the lock is unlocked, the controlleroutputs information indicating that the imaging operation of the release switchis valid, as the user interface information. In a case where the imaging operation of the release switchis performed, the controlleroutputs information related to the captured image count as the user interface information. The controllerrestricts output of the image data of the imaging to the display.

7 FIG. 57 17 55 15 42 15 Specifically, as illustrated in (A) of, in a case where switching to the film camera mode from the normal mode is performed, the lever state display portiondisplays “--” indicating that the winding operation of the leveris not performed. The captured image count display portiondisplays the current captured image count as “O”. In this state, the lock is set on the imaging operation of the release switch, and acquisition and storage of a still image in the memory cardare not performed even in a case where the release switchis operated.

7 FIG. 7 FIG. 17 57 17 57 15 15 42 15 55 57 22 As illustrated in (B) of, by performing the winding operation of the lever, the lever state display portiondisplays “OK” indicating that the winding operation of the leveris performed. The display of “OK” in the lever state display portionrepresents information indicating that the imaging operation of the release switchis valid. In this state, the lock on the imaging operation of the release switchis unlocked, and acquisition and storage of the still image in the memory cardare performed by operating the release switch. In a case where the imaging operation is completed, as illustrated in (C) of, the captured image count display portionchanges the display of the current captured image count to “1” from “0”, and the lever state display portionis restored to the display of “--” again by resetting the winding operation. When the imaging operation is completed, the displaymaintains the display of the user interface information (the touch operation disabled region and the touch operation enabled region) of the film camera mode and does not display the image data after the imaging.

31 65 23 57 8 FIG. 9 FIG. In a case where the imaging operation is performed while the lock is set on the imaging operation, the controllerpreferably outputs information indicating that the imaging operation is invalid. Specifically, as illustrated in, it is preferable to turn on and off a warning light emitting diode (LED)provided on the left side of the electronic view finder, as the information indicating that the imaging operation is invalid. As illustrated in, it is preferable to flash on and off “--” in the lever state display portion, as the information indicating that the imaging operation is invalid.

31 42 31 22 In a case where a selection to finish the film camera mode is made, the controllerpreferably stores a series of the image data obtained by the imaging in the memory card(a recording medium) in a single unit format. In a case where the film camera mode is finished, the controllertransitions to the normal mode in which the restriction of the output to the displayis released.

10 FIG. 10 FIG. 10 FIG. 24 66 22 66 67 68 68 42 22 22 Specifically, as illustrated in (A) of, in the case of finishing the film camera mode in the middle of the film camera mode, a predetermined touch operation for switching the film camera mode to a finish screen is performed on the sub-display. Accordingly, as illustrated in (B) of, a film camera mode finish selection screenis displayed on the display. The film camera mode finish selection screendisplays a cartridge imagerepresenting that the series of the image data obtained by the imaging will be stored in a single unit format, and a finish selection button. The film camera mode is finished by performing the touch operation on the finish selection button, and the series of the image data obtained by the imaging are stored in the memory cardin a single unit format. Accordingly, as illustrated in (C) of, a transition is made to the normal mode. The non-display of the live view on the displayis released, and the live view is displayed on the display.

31 15 17 31 42 31 22 In the film camera mode, in a case where the captured image count reaches the predetermined number, the controllerpreferably invalidates the imaging operation of the release switchand unlocking of the lock on the imaging operation of the lever. In the film camera mode, in a case where the captured image count reaches the predetermined number, the controllerpreferably stores the series of the image data obtained by the imaging in the memory cardin a single unit format. In a case where the film camera mode is finished, the controllertransitions to the normal mode in which the restriction of the output to the displayis released.

11 FIG. 11 FIG. 11 FIG. 57 17 15 22 70 70 67 71 42 22 22 22 Specifically, as illustrated in (A) of, in a case where the captured image count reaches “72” that is the remaining capture count, the lever state display portiondisplays “OFF” indicating that the imaging operation based on the winding operation of the leveris invalid. Accordingly, the imaging operation of the release switchis also invalidated. After a certain amount of time, the displaydisplays a film camera mode finish screen, as illustrated in (B) of. The film camera mode finish screendisplays the cartridge imagerepresenting that the series of the image data obtained by the imaging will be stored in a single unit format, and a messageindicating that the film camera mode is finished. Accordingly, the film camera mode is finished, and the series of the image data obtained by the imaging are stored in the memory cardin a single unit format. By performing a tap operation on the display, a transition is made to the normal mode, as illustrated in (C) of. The non-display of the live view on the displayis released, and the live view is displayed on the display.

42 22 42 73 22 73 73 22 73 73 22 12 FIG. In the film camera mode, the series of the image data obtained by the imaging are preferably stored in the memory cardin a single unit format on which display restriction on the displayis imposed. For example, as illustrated in, the series of the image data are stored in the memory cardas a thumbnail image grouprepresenting each piece of the image data of the captured image count captured so far as a thumbnail. During the film camera mode, since the display restriction on the displayis imposed on the thumbnail image group, the thumbnail image groupis not displayed on the displayeven in a case where a play button (not illustrated) is operated. Meanwhile, in a case where the film camera mode is finished, the display restriction on the thumbnail image groupis released, and the thumbnail image groupcan be displayed on the display.

10 31 22 The film camera mode is preferably a mode in which a digital function of the imaging apparatusis restricted. The controllerpreferably performs at least two of restriction of the image format, restriction of the output of the live view to the display, restriction of the storage of the series of the image data obtained by the imaging in the film camera mode in a format other than the format of a single unit, restriction of the captured image count, and restriction of a second imaging operation following a first imaging operation, as the restriction of the digital function.

22 22 73 15 15 17 Specifically, the restriction of the image format preferably allows still images and restricts videos. For the restriction of the output of the live view to the display, it is preferable not to display the live view on the display. For the restriction of the storage of the series of the image data obtained by the imaging in the film camera mode in a format other than the format of a single unit, it is preferable to prohibit storage in a format other than the thumbnail image group. For the restriction of the captured image count, it is preferable to prohibit capturing of the captured image count exceeding the remaining capture count set at the start of the film camera mode. For the restriction of the second imaging operation following the first imaging operation, it is preferable to prohibit consecutive imaging operations of the release switchwith respect to the imaging operation of the release switchand, after the first imaging operation is performed, allow the second imaging operation after unlocking the lock on the imaging operation by performing the winding operation of the lever.

1 10 1 22 2 3 13 FIG. For the film camera mode, ten patterns of modeto modecan be set as illustrated in. In modeof the film camera mode, two types of restriction including the restriction of the image format (image format restriction) and the restriction of the output of the live view to the display(monitor output restriction) are performed. In modeof the film camera mode, two types of restriction including the image format restriction and the restriction of the storage of the series of the image data obtained by the imaging in the film camera mode in a format other than the format of a single unit (storage restriction) are performed. In modeof the film camera mode, it is preferable to perform two types of restriction including the image format restriction and the restriction of the second imaging operation following the first imaging operation (imaging operation restriction).

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 In modeof the film camera mode, it is preferable to perform two types of restriction including the monitor output restriction and the storage restriction. In modeof the film camera mode, it is preferable to perform two types of restriction including the monitor output restriction and the imaging operation restriction. In modeof the film camera mode, it is preferable to perform two types of restriction including the storage restriction and the imaging operation restriction. In modeof the film camera mode, it is preferable to perform three types of restriction including the image format restriction, the monitor output restriction, and the storage restriction. In modeof the film camera mode, it is preferable to perform three types of restriction including the image format restriction, the monitor output restriction, and the imaging operation restriction. In modeof the film camera mode, it is preferable to perform three types of restriction including the monitor output restriction, the storage restriction, and the imaging operation restriction. In modeof the film camera mode, it is preferable to perform four types of restriction including the image format restriction, the monitor output restriction, the storage restriction, and the imaging operation restriction.

31 31 42 10 10 42 The controllercontrols execution, continuation, and finish of the film camera mode (the first imaging mode). The controlleracquires first information related to insertion and removal of the memory card(the recording medium) in which the imaging data of the imaging apparatusis recorded, and restricts the film camera mode related to the function of the imaging apparatusbased on the first information. The first information is preferably information including a state of insertion and removal of the memory card. While the restriction of the film camera mode is the finish of the film camera mode in the present embodiment, the restriction of the film camera mode also includes a case of pausing only a part of the functions of the film camera mode and executing the rest.

31 24 31 42 42 10 10 14 FIG.A 15 FIG. 14 FIG.B 15 FIG. Specifically, in a case where the film camera mode is started, the controllerpreferably performs a first control that is control of any of executing the film camera mode or restricting the film camera mode, based on the first information. The film camera mode is started by performing the touch operation on the sub-display, as described above. As illustrated in, the controllerexecutes the film camera mode in a case where the first information indicates an insertion state of the memory card(see). Meanwhile, as illustrated in, the film camera mode is finished in a case where the first information indicates a removal state of the memory card(see). The start of the film camera mode includes not only a case of selecting the film camera mode in the already started imaging apparatusbut also a case of setting the film camera mode when the imaging apparatusis started.

14 14 FIGS.A andB 42 42 10 42 Here, in, a state where a rectangular solid line box includes “SD card” represents the insertion state of the memory card, and a state where a rectangular solid line box includes “-” represents the removal state of the memory card. A figure of a camera represents the imaging apparatus. The insertion state or the removal state and the representation of the camera are the same in other drawings. While examples of the memory cardinclude an SD card in the present embodiment, other recording media (such as a USB memory) may be used.

31 22 31 Next, in a case where the film camera mode is executed, the controllerpreferably outputs error information based on the first information. For example, the error information may be displayed on the displayor may be provided by voice or the like. After the error information is output, the controllerpreferably performs a second control that is a control of any of continuing the film camera mode or restricting the film camera mode, based on the first information.

16 16 16 FIGS.A,B, andC 16 16 FIGS.A andB 16 FIG.C 10 42 42 Specifically, as illustrated in each of, in a case where the first information is changed to the removal state from the insertion state during the film camera mode, the imaging apparatusoutputs the error information. After the error information is output, as illustrated in, in a case where the first information is changed to the insertion state by inserting the memory card, a control of any of continuing the film camera mode or finishing the film camera mode is performed. Meanwhile, as illustrated in, in a case where the memory cardis not inserted and the first information is maintained as the removal state even after an elapse of a certain amount of time, a control of finishing the film camera mode is performed.

31 42 42 42 17 FIG. 16 FIG.A 16 FIG.B 18 FIG. As the control performed after the error information is output, in a case where the first information is changed to the insertion state, the controllerpreferably determines the presence or absence of a first attribute assigned to the memory cardby executing the film camera mode. As illustrated in, in a case where the first attribute is present, the film camera mode is continued (see). In a case where the first attribute is absent, the film camera mode is finished (see). For example, a case where the first attribute is absent is a case where the memory cardthat is inserted again is a card different from the memory cardbefore insertion, as illustrated in.

42 The first attribute is created in the memory cardat the first start of the film camera mode as a management file. The management file includes not only the first attribute but also a second attribute (described later). The management file preferably includes a start date and time and a finish date and time of the film camera mode, the remaining capture count at the start of the film camera mode, a memory card capacity at the start of the film camera mode, a film simulation/filter setting during the film camera mode, and the like.

31 42 42 17 FIG. 16 FIG.A 16 FIG.B 19 FIG. As the control performed after the error information is output, in a case where the first information is changed to the insertion state, the controllerpreferably determines the presence or absence of the first attribute. As illustrated in, in a case where the first attribute is present and an external change is not made to the second attribute assigned to data of the memory cardin association with a history record (a modification is not made), the film camera mode is continued (see). Meanwhile, in a case where the first attribute is present and an external change is made to the second attribute (a modification is made), the film camera mode is finished (see). For example, a case where an external change is made to the second attribute means that duplication, deletion, change, or the like of a file/folder is performed in the memory card, as illustrated in.

42 As a method of determining whether or not an external change is made, for example, in a case where a capacity obtained by subtracting an image data capacity of the captured image count captured so far from the memory card capacity at the start of the film camera mode, which is one type of the second attribute, falls within a predetermined range as a card capacity of the memory cardafter being inserted again, it is preferable to determine that a modification is not made. In a case where the capacity does not fall within the predetermined range, it is preferable to determine that a modification is made.

42 a case where the memory cardthat is removed is inserted without manipulating the data and the like, and 42 a case where the memory cardin which a part of image files other than those in the current film camera mode is deleted is inserted. Examples of continuing the film camera mode after the error information is output include

42 a case where the memory cardin which a part of image files being captured in the current film camera mode is deleted is inserted, 42 42 a case where another memory cardof which only an overall folder configuration is the same as that of the memory cardis inserted, 42 a case where the memory cardin which some files are written is inserted, 42 a case where the memory cardin which the management file is deleted is inserted, 42 a case where the memory cardin which all image files are deleted is inserted, 42 a case where another memory cardis inserted, 42 a case where a cloned memory cardis inserted, 42 a case where the same memory cardis set to be protected and inserted, 42 a case where the memory cardused in another imaging apparatus is inserted (a case where the memory card capacity is smaller than that during the imaging), and 42 42 a case where the memory cardis replaced with the memory cardbeing used in the film camera mode in another imaging apparatus. Meanwhile, examples of finishing the film camera mode after the error information is output include

10 31 10 10 10 10 10 In a case where the film camera mode is executed, and the imaging apparatusis powered off and then, powered on again, the controllerpreferably performs a third control that is a control of any of continuing the film camera mode or restricting the film camera mode, based on the first information. Powering on and off of the imaging apparatusincludes not only a case of powering the imaging apparatuson and off by operating a power button of the imaging apparatusbut also a case of powering the imaging apparatuson and off by inserting and removing the battery inserted in the imaging apparatus.

20 20 20 FIGS.A,B, andC 20 FIG.A 20 FIG.C 10 42 10 10 42 10 42 31 Specifically, as illustrated in each of, in a case where the imaging apparatusis powered OFF during the film camera mode, and the same memory cardremains inserted and the insertion state is maintained in the first information until the imaging apparatusis powered ON again, as illustrated in, the film camera mode continues. As illustrated in (B) and, in a case where the imaging apparatusis powered OFF, the memory cardis then removed, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, and the memory cardis inserted and the first information is changed to the removal state from the insertion state, the controllerperforms a control of any of continuing the film camera mode or restricting the film camera mode.

10 10 31 17 FIG. 20 FIG.B 20 FIG.C As the control in a case where the imaging apparatusis powered on again, in a case where the imaging apparatusis powered off and then, powered on again, the controllerpreferably determines the presence or absence of the first attribute. As illustrated in, in a case where the first attribute is present, the film camera mode is continued (see). In a case where the first attribute is absent, the film camera mode is finished (see).

10 10 31 17 FIG. 20 FIG.B 20 FIG.C As the control in a case where the imaging apparatusis powered on again, in a case where the imaging apparatusis powered off and then, powered on again, the controllerpreferably determines the presence or absence of the first attribute. As illustrated in, in a case where the first attribute is present and an external change is not made to the second attribute (a modification is not made), the film camera mode is continued (see). Meanwhile, in a case where the first attribute is present and an external change is made to the second attribute (a modification is made), the film camera mode is finished (see).

10 42 42 10 a case where the memory cardis removed, and then the removed memory cardis inserted without manipulating the data and the like and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, and 42 42 10 a case where the memory cardis removed, and then the memory cardin which a part of image files other than those in the current film camera mode is deleted is inserted and the imaging apparatusis powered ON. Examples of continuing the film camera mode in a case where the imaging apparatusis powered OFF during the film camera mode include

10 42 42 10 a case where the memory cardin which a part of image files being captured in the current film camera mode is deleted is inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, 42 42 10 a case where another memory cardof which only an overall folder configuration is the same as that of the memory cardis inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, 42 10 a case where the memory cardin which some files are written is inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, 42 10 a case where the memory cardin which the management file is deleted is inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, 42 10 a case where the memory cardin which all image files are deleted is inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, 42 10 a case where another memory cardis inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, 42 10 a case where a cloned memory cardis inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, 42 10 a case where the same memory cardis set to be protected and inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON, 10 42 a case where the imaging apparatusis powered ON without inserting the memory card, 42 10 a case where the same memory cardis inserted after powering the imaging apparatusON, 42 10 a case where the memory cardused in another imaging apparatus is inserted, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON (a case where the memory card capacity is smaller than that during the imaging), and 42 42 10 a case where the memory cardis replaced with the memory cardbeing used in the film camera mode in another imaging apparatus, and the imaging apparatusis powered ON. Meanwhile, examples of finishing the film camera mode in a case where the imaging apparatusis powered OFF during the film camera mode and the memory cardis removed include

10 It is also preferable to finish the film camera mode in a case where the battery is removed without powering the imaging apparatusOFF in the film camera mode.

31 14 21 FIG. 10 11 FIGS.and Next, in a case where the film camera mode is finished, the controllerpreferably performs initialization related to the film camera mode. As illustrated in, the initialization is preferably processing of not using a first set value set in first imaging in the film camera mode as a second set value set in second imaging that is imaging in the subsequent film camera mode. By performing the initialization, the set value used in the previous film camera mode is not carried over (reset) in the subsequent film camera mode. Here, for example, the first set value or the second set value is the remaining capture count, a pattern of the film simulation, the exposure level set using the mode dial, and the F number. In a case where the film camera mode is finished, the normal mode is automatically executed (see). Thus, a new start operation is necessary to start the subsequent film camera mode.

42 31 42 42 42 Execution and finish of the film camera mode may be controlled based on information different from the first information. In a case where the memory cardis inserted, the controllermay acquire second information related to an attribute of the memory cardand restrict the film camera mode based on the second information. Specifically, the attribute preferably includes any of the first attribute assigned to the memory cardby executing the film camera mode or the second attribute assigned to the data of the memory cardin association with the history record. The first attribute and the second attribute are the same as described above.

22 FIG. 42 As illustrated in, in a case where the first attribute is present with respect to the second information, or in a case where the first attribute is present and the second attribute is not modified with respect to the second information, the film camera mode is executed in a case where the memory cardis inserted. Meanwhile, in a case where the first attribute is absent with respect to the second information, or in a case where the first attribute is present and the second attribute is modified with respect to the second information, the film camera mode is finished.

23 FIG. 24 31 42 10 42 31 42 31 Next, an imaging method according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart in. The film camera mode is started by causing the user to perform the touch operation on the sub-display. The film camera mode is an imaging mode in which the image format is restricted. The controlleracquires the first information related to insertion and removal of the memory cardin which the imaging data of the imaging apparatusis recorded, and performs a step of restricting the film camera mode based on the first information. In the film camera mode restriction step, in a case where the first information indicates the insertion state of the memory card, the controllerexecutes the film camera mode. Meanwhile, in a case where the first information indicates the removal state of the memory card, the controllerfinishes the film camera mode.

22 22 22 In a case where the film camera mode is executed (selected), a step of outputting the user interface information related to the imaging to the displayand restricting the output of the live view to the displayis performed. The display of the user interface information and the restriction of the output of the live view continue during the film camera mode. In a case where the film camera mode is finished, switching to the normal mode from the film camera mode is performed. By switching to the normal mode, the live view is displayed on the display.

31 42 10 10 10 10 10 An imaging program according to the embodiment of the present invention is a program causing the controllerto execute a process including acquiring the first information related to insertion and removal of the memory cardin which the imaging data of the imaging apparatusis recorded, and restricting the film camera mode based on the first information. It is preferable that the imaging program according to the embodiment of the present invention is installed on the imaging apparatusat the time of manufacturing or the like of the imaging apparatusor is installed on the imaging apparatusthrough a network or the like after the imaging apparatusis shipped.

In the present embodiment, each processing is executed by any computer. Any computer may execute those processing via a processor, a program, or a combination thereof. Any computer may be a general-purpose computer, a computer for a specific purpose, a system such as a workstation, or other hardware elements capable of executing a program.

The processor may be composed of one or a plurality of pieces of hardware, and types of hardware are not limited. For example, the processor may be composed of hardware such as a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a programmable logic device such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a dedicated circuit for executing specific processing, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a graphic processing unit (GPU), or a neural processing unit (NPU). The processor includes each unit or each means that executes various types of processing in the present embodiment. Types of hardware may be a combination of different types of hardware. In a case where a plurality of pieces of hardware are configured to execute one or a plurality of types of processing of a processor, the plurality of pieces of hardware may be present in apparatuses physically separated from each other or may be present in the same apparatus. In any embodiment, the order of each processing via the processor is not limited to the above order and may be appropriately changed. The hardware is composed of an electric circuit (circuitry) in which circuit elements such as semiconductor elements are combined.

The present embodiment may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. Software, firmware, and microcode are composed of a program. For example, the program may be a program module group, and each function thereof may be implemented by a processor configured to execute each function. The program may be a program code or a plurality of code segments stored in one or a plurality of non-transitory computer-readable media (for example, storage media or other storages). The program may be divided and stored in a plurality of non-transitory computer-readable media present in apparatuses physically separated from each other. The program code or the code segments may represent any combination of a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a class, an instruction, a data structure, and a program statement. The program code or the code segments may be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by transmitting and receiving information, data, an argument, a parameter, or content of a memory.

13 11 12 13 While each embodiment illustrates the digital camera in which the imaging optical systemis fixed to the camera body, the present invention is not limited to this, and a lens-interchangeable digital camera in which an imaging optical system is interchangeable with respect to a camera body may be applied. While each embodiment illustrates the lens barrelnot including a zoom lens, the present invention is not limited to this, and the imaging optical systemmay be configured to include a zoom lens. The present invention can be applied to a smartphone and a camera such as a video camera, other than the digital camera.

10 : imaging apparatus 11 : camera body 11 A: grip 12 : lens barrel 13 : imaging optical system 14 : mode dial 15 : release switch 16 : power switch 17 : lever 18 : flash device 19 : illumination device 21 : imaging element 22 : display 23 : electronic view finder 24 : sub-display 31 : controller 32 : shutter unit 33 : shutter motor 34 : motor driver 35 : image memory 36 : bus line 37 : image data processing portion 38 : display driver 41 : card interface (I/F) 42 : memory card 50 : touch operation disabled region 51 : touch operation enabled region 53 : remaining battery capacity display portion 54 : F number display portion 55 : captured image count display portion 56 : remaining capture count display portion 57 : lever state display portion 58 : flash presence or absence display portion 59 : date display portion 60 : AF/MF switching portion 60 a : round button portion 61 : date ON/OFF switching portion 61 a : round button portion 62 : MF focal length operator 62 a : slider 65 : warning LED 66 : film camera mode finish selection screen 67 : cartridge image 68 : finish selection button 70 : film camera mode finish screen 71 : message 73 : thumbnail image group CL: central axis OA: optical axis